Chalk Dust

Chalk Dust
by Odin Roark


What history lurks
Below blackboard surfaces
Wedged in creases of eraser felt
In between folds of Oakwood trays

How pristine we wipe clean
The dark window’s surface
Making ready today’s learning
Tomorrow’s remembrance
Future’s childhood bygones

Like stars burned out
Disintegrating to dust
Time’s ancient knowledge
Forever seeks rebirth

Even though for many
Such simple magic
Has all but disappeared
Merely white dust memories
Purposely forgotten

For a few
The latent markings
Remain black and white teachings
Forever embedded in rainbow dreams